After graduating from leading design school Istituto Europeo Di Design in Milan, Sam Issa approached PhD researchers in advanced material and nanotechnology at Linköping University. His aim was to create solutions that can help the textile industry solve sustainability issues through technology and innovation. Together, they’ve developed a patent-pending technology solution called smart-patch system, which enables resizing in garments with a single push of a button.
— We combine a smart polymer thread with a memory effect function, and a conductive thread, Issa explains. The patch component could be created in many different possible shapes and is integrated into the garment to achieve a ”few sizes fit all” solution. For example, one size could cover from the smallest to the middle sizes and another from the middle sizes to the largest.
When the smart-patch system is integrated in, for instance, a jacket, vest, or trousers, the technology enables size adjustment of the length and the width. The technology is always hidden as a mid-layer between outer and inner materials and is never visible for the wearer.
— We leave seam edges that any cut and sew manufacturer could integrate easily with traditional sewing machines. To clarify, it is not a stretch material, and the patch component keeps the new size and does not change it until the next intentional resizing. The process is fully reversible multiple times, at least more than 100, and the patch is washable, also at 60 degrees, Issa says.
His company, Nano Textile, has received positive feedback on a pilot project together with a workwear company and is currently in dialogue with brands from different segments, such as outdoor and extreme sports, fashion, and couture. The aim is to launch a product on the market within two years.
This is #22 on our list with 25 Innovations for better living from Scandinavian MIND Issue 2
1. Here’s the first furniture brand to publish their climate footprint
2. Unique Bio2 textile can make a change in our polluted world
3. Patented technology can turn the eyewear industry circular
4. Filtration technology saves you from hidden pollution at home
5. This Swedish collective launches line with skincare for objects
6. Powder to liquid wash can change personal care as we know it
7. This household product line cleans with all-natural sugar surfactants
8. Spinnova’s textile fibre might be the world’s most groundbreaking
9. Here’s how AI can be used to create your ultimate personal scent
10. Design brand Verk takes local production one — big — step further
11. CAKE is here to challenge the status quo for motorbikes
12. This solar cell can be powered by ordinary indoor light
13. Revolutionary reusable sanitary protection is about to hit the market
14. A green version of the super-material graphene transforms the industry
15. Groundbreaking recyling app teams up with the world’s leading brands
16. This Finnish eco-design brand’s toilet is made of wood
17. Cleantech scaleup aims to liberate the world from harmful energy
18. Post-consumer textiles and wood cellulose become new sustainable fibre
19. How charging members a small monthly fee challenges the linear retail industry
20. Private, well-designed zero distraction units can create better workplaces
